Operator’s Manual

Dry and Refrigerated Van Trailers

This manual contains important safety information. Read manual carefully. Keep manual with trailer at all times.

Part Number: 25001308 Rev. A Warranty Your Wabash National® trailer warranty is defined in your Purchase Agreement and its detailed Terms and Conditions. If you believe you have a valid warranty claim, please contact your sales representative or Wabash National customer service for assistance.

Wabash National Warranty Department: (765) 771-5404

Normal Trailer Use Statement Your Wabash National® trailer is designed, engineered, and manufactured to provide years of safe, dependable service. To ensure reliable service, the trailer must be properly maintained and used in normal service, free from accident or collision damages. “Normal service” means the loading, unloading and carriage of uniformly distributed legal loads of non-corrosive, properly secured cargo. The vehicle must be operated on well-maintained public roads. Gross vehicle weights must not exceed the labeled gross vehicle weight rating. Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ...... 1 Brake Air System ...... 19 Message to the Owner and Operator ..... 1 Anti-Lock Brake System ...... 21 Identification ...... 1 Foundation Brake System ...... 23 How to Use This Operator’s Manual ...... 3 Air-Ride Suspension ...... 26 Trailer Accessories ...... 3 Leaf Spring Suspension ...... 27 SAFETY ...... 4 Hubs ...... 28 Safety Instructions ...... 4 MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION .... 29 Notice ...... 5 Lubrication ...... 29 Safety Advisory Labels ...... 5 Wheel Ends ...... 29 SYSTEMS AND FEATURES ...... 6 Doors ...... 29 Kingpin and Upper Coupler ...... 6 Tire Care ...... 30 Floor System ...... 6 Limiting Factors and Load Limits ...... 30 Roof System ...... 9 OPERATION ...... 31 Doors ...... 10 Hookup/Coupling and Uncoupling ...... 31 Swing Doors ...... 10 Sliding the Tandem ...... 32 Overhead Doors ...... 11 Refrigerated-Trailer Cooling Unit ...... 33 Before Operating ...... 12 Safety Appliances ...... 33 During Operation ...... 12 INSPECTION ...... 35 Rear-Impact Guard ...... 13 Operator’s Pre-Trip Inspection ...... 35 Landing Gear ...... 14 CONCLUSION ...... 37 Operating Instructions ...... 15 For More Information ...... 37 Electrical System ...... 17 Air Systems ...... 18 ©2011 Wabash National, L.P. All rights reserved Wabash®, Wabash Brake System ...... 19 National®, and DuraPlate® are marks owned by Wabash National, L.P.

Introduction

Message To The Owner And Operator you pass this information on to any operators who may use Wabash National trailers. Congratulations on your new trailer purchase. You have just purchased the highest-quality semi- If you have any questions, do not hesitate to trailer on the road today. With proper use and contact your sales representative or the nearest maintenance, your Wabash National trailer will give Wabash National Trailer Center location for you years of safe, dependable service. answers. This manual will acquaint you with the operation Thank you for choosing Wabash National for your and maintenance of your Wabash National trailer needs. trailer and highlight important safety information. Identification The information in this publication applies to standard Wabash National specifications only. The official Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) All variations in specifications cannot be covered used for title, registration, and identification in this manual. For operation, maintenance, and purposes is listed on the 5" x 7" silver tag located service instructions pertaining to components not on the trailer’s front wall. The VIN tag also contains manufactured by Wabash National, please refer information specific to your trailer such as: model, to the component manufacturer’s information. date of manufacture, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Instructional and informational decals shown herein (GVWR), and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). are for example only, were current at the time of When contacting Wabash National, always refer publication, and may not exist on your specific to the VIN to obtain parts, repair information and trailer based on the components specified and/or details related to the trailer warranty. used. NOTE: The load ratings for this trailer may not be Please read this publication carefully and follow legal in all states. Check all applicable laws. these recommendations. It is also important that 1 Introduction

E xample VIN Tag

2 Introduction

How To Use This Operator’s Manual Trailer Accessories This manual is organized and written for the end This manual does not provide information on the user of the trailer. Following these guidelines as installation, inspection, or maintenance of trailer well as proper use and maintenance will help to accessories that may have been installed on your ensure safe, dependable service. trailer during or after manufacture by Wabash National. Such accessories may include, but This manual provides valuable information are not limited to, DuraPlate AeroSkirts® or other regarding required inspections and maintenance. aerodynamic assistance devices, toolboxes, or It also provides important information for safe belly boxes. operation of the trailer. You must read and follow this manual. Do not lose or destroy this valuable Please refer to the installation or care manuals reference. If this manual is lost or destroyed, provided by the manufacturer of the accessory contact your sales representative or the nearest items for maintenance, inspection, and care Wabash National Trailer Center location for a instructions relating to those accessories. replacement.

3 Safety

Safety Instructions • Repair and/or replace components with the same type of approved parts. • Follow applicable federal, state, provincial, and • It is the responsibility of the driver to back up the local laws, rules and regulations. vehicle in a safe manner, ensuring the area is • Ensure the trailer and its components are properly clear of people and obstructions. inspected and maintained.

• Inspect the trailer prior to operation. ! CAUTION: • Ensure the trailer brakes are correctly adjusted Use extreme caution when backing the trailer and functioning properly. and maneuvering. Be aware of blind areas and personnel or unseen hazards. • Ensure all lights are operating properly. • Exercise extreme caution when entering and • It is illegal and a direct threat to human life to exiting the trailer. transport people in a trailer. • Ensure tires are in good condition and properly • Ensure the trailer is properly secured on a firm, inflated. level surface when performing trailer maintenance • Ensure the tractor is properly attached to the and inspections. trailer. • Make sure to read, understand, and comply with • Check to ensure the bogie lock pins are fully all instructions noted on all labels affixed to the engaged into the suspension slide rails. trailer. • Visually inspect structural components • When climbing in and around the trailer, always (i.e., sidewalls, roof, floor, coupler, etc.) for maintain three points of contact. damage and corrosion. • Never climb steps that are not firmly attached or • Never operate the trailer with damaged structural properly maintained. components. ! • Never perform maintenance unless you are WARNING: properly trained. Never transport people in a trailer. 4 Safety

Notice ! WARNING: Activities associated with “ ! WARNING” The descriptions and specifications contained in indicate a potentially hazardous situation, this manual were in effect at the time the manual which, if not avoided, may result in death or was approved for printing. Wabash National serious injury. reserves the right to discontinue models at any time, or to change specifications and design without ! CAUTION: notice and without incurring obligations. Activities associated with “ ! CAUTION” indicate a potentially hazardous situation, Safety Advisory Labels which, if not avoided, may result in minor or This manual contains Safety Information Advisory moderate injury. When used without the safety ! Labels to identify potential hazards for persons alert symbol, “ CAUTION” may be used for using, operating, and servicing this trailer. property-damage accidents or to warn against Information preceded by one of these signal words unsafe practices. must be observed to minimize the risk of injury Additional Notes and Service Hints are used to to the driver, service personnel, and the general emphasize the importance of a procedure when public, as well as to prevent improper service a specific operation, practice, or condition is methods that may damage the vehicle or cause it essential. to be unsafe. The following definitions indicate the use of signal words as they appear throughout this manual:

CAREFULLY FOLLOW THE SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL. 5 Systems and Features

Kingpin and Upper Coupler Floor System The upper coupler is a heavy fabricated steel The trailer floor system includes decking, floor assembly attached to the lower front of the trailer, supports/crossmembers, lower sidewalls, and which includes the kingpin. The kingpin provides base-rail connection fastener. the connection for pulling by the tractor fifth wheel. Regular inspection of the floor system is important ! WARNING: to ensure safe use of the vehicle. Damage to the kingpin, upper coupler structure and connecting fasteners will compromise the The load rating capacity of a floor system varies structural integrity of the trailer. depending on the model of your trailer. • Ensure all replacement fasteners are of the same Contact your sales representative or the nearest diameter, design, and strength rating as the Wabash National Trailer Center to verify the load original equipment manufacture. rating capacity of this trailer. ! WARNING: Never operate a trailer without first inspecting and verifying a proper coupling. A visual inspection is required by law. Some improper couplings can pass a pull test. Sound alone is not reliable. A visual inspection is mandatory.

6 Systems and Features

F loor System (cont.) F loor System (cont.) ! CAUTION: High-Capacity Floor System: Inspect all floor system components prior to Only Wabash National’s High-Capacity Floor loading and unloading. System is rated at 35,000 pounds. All other Wabash National flooring systems are rated at Prior to loading or unloading, verify there are: lower load rating capacities. – No delaminated and/or broken wood boards – No deformed, cracked, or wavy aluminum boards Any trailer with a High-Capacity Floor System is – No missing or loose fasteners in decking or base-rail marked and identified on both the exterior and connections interior walls of the trailer. The decal below is – No bent and/or cracked crossmembers displayed on the rear interior wall of any trailer – No cuts or structural damage on lower section of having a High-Capacity Floor System. sidewalls

• Do not damage or compromise the integrity of the floor with excessive nailing in a localized region. • Use of dock boards and leveling equipment is recommended for forklift entry. • Do not expose the floor or body components to corrosive materials and solvents. Transporting corrosives may void the warranty. • All flooring repairs must be performed using materials with identical section properties, thickness, and type/specification of wood or aluminum. 7 Systems and Features

! CAUTION: ! CAUTION: Loading Load Distribution • Improper loading, load distribution, and cargo • Cargo should be properly loaded, blocked, and securement can damage the floor system. braced to prevent load shifts and to comply • Avoid pallets with small footprints to reduce with the following sections of Title 49 of the chance of puncture. Department of Transportation Federal Motor • Tandem suspension should be placed in rearmost Carriers Safety Regulations at FMCSA’s official position when loading. web site: www.fmcsa.dot.gov • Ensure trailer is on a solid, level surface while – Section 393.100 – General rules for protection loading. against shifting or falling cargo – Section 393.102 – Securement Systems – Section 393.104 – Blocking and Bracing – Section 393.114 – Front-End Structure

8 Systems and Features

Roof System • When repairing a roof, always use an aluminum sheet or similar-type translucent material of the The trailer roof system includes roof sheet, roof original thickness. bows, and fastener connections to the top rail. • During winter use, remove heavy snow and ice Regular roof inspections are important to ensure buildup. Parking next to buildings during winter safe operation of the vehicle. Wabash National’s may increase the chances of heavy snow loads. standard roof material is an aluminum sheet or • Damaged roofs can cause water leakage, optional translucent material. The roof structure resulting in cargo damage. is a critical element of the trailer. The roof sheet and roof bows provide stability to the top rails and sidewalls. ! CAUTION: Damage to the roof system can cause instability of the upper sidewalls, resulting in buckling and collapse of the trailer

• When operating your trailer, ensure proper clearance so the trailer’s roof will not strike objects (e.g., bridges, underpasses, garage bay doors, trees, etc.). • Prior to loading the trailer, inspect the roof to ensure it does not have cracks, tears, missing rivets, loss of bow bonding to the roof sheet and/ or loose roof sheet, or puncture damage. • Promptly replace damaged or missing roof bows. 9 Systems and Features

Doors ! WARNING: Follow the guidelines below to avoid potentially ! WARNING: hazardous situations, that may result in death Be aware that interior cargo may shift or fall or serious injury. when opening the doors. • Always open one door at a time. Swing Doors • In high-wind conditions, use extreme caution The trailer swing door system includes door panels when operating doors. with seals, hinges, door-locking hardware, and • Never operate equipment with the trailer doors door tiebacks. Regular inspection of the swing door open except when backing into and/or pulling system is important to ensure safe operation of the away from a loading dock. vehicle. • Drivers should never position themselves inside the swing path of an open door without first The primary function of the doors is to provide a ensuring the door is properly secured. weathertight seal. When properly closed, the rear • Inspect hardware including hinges, door-locking doors hold the body square and provide structural hardware, and door tiebacks to ensure there are integrity. It is important that the lock rod hardware no damaged or broken components. draws the doors tight and holds the rear frame square. Swing doors will provide safe, dependable • When doors are open, always ensure the doors are properly secured to the sidewalls with door service if routinely inspected and properly tiebacks. maintained.

10 Systems and Features

• Check doors, hinges, lock rods, and holdback Be sure to read, understand, and comply with all devices for damage or distortion from impact. instructions noted on all labels affixed to the door. • Door seals are subject to wear and damage. ! They must be routinely checked and repaired or WARNING: replaced to ensure a tight, weatherproof closure High-tension springs can cause serious injury that protects cargo. or death. All repairs and adjustments must be made by trained service personnel. Overhead Doors Before Operating The trailer overhead door system includes door panels, tracks, a door-operating assembly, and • Do not manually operate the door with a broken locking hardware. Regular inspection of the counterbalance spring. The door will not be counterbalanced and will free-fall when opened. overhead door system is important to ensure safe vehicle operation. • Inspect all fasteners. Tighten or replace loose fasteners on the lift handle, lock, pull strap, and When the overhead door is in operation, the hinges. Inspect the pull strap and replace it if movement is assisted with the help of a pre- frayed or damaged. tensioned spring. When stopped, a properly • Do not tie anything to the pull strap – longer pull counterbalanced door should remain at any given straps are available if required. position. If the door leaves the floor by itself when the latch is released, the spring tension is wound During Operation too tight. If the door has the tendency to drop when • Check handle movement. Lubricate the handle stopped, it should be inspected and adjusted or with light oil if movement is stiff. Have any worn or repaired by qualified personnel. damaged latch/locking assembly parts replaced.

11 Systems and Features

O verhead Doors (cont.) • Check door movement. If the door is hard to move, lubricate the rollers, counterbalance spring and bearings. Have damaged or worn rollers and hinges replaced. Do not operate the door if it becomes extremely difficult to move. Have a trained mechanic inspect it. • Check cable attachments. Have frayed, damaged or worn cables replaced. Cable drums should be snug against the bearings. • Make sure tracks and door openings are not obstructed through the full range of travel. • Never operate the trailer with the doors open except when backing into a loading dock. Refer to the Maintenance and Lubrication section for door lubrication information. ! CAUTION: The frequency of door maintenance will vary with climate conditions and application.

12 Systems and Features

Rear-Impact Guard It is extremely important to inspect the rear-impact guard during the driver’s daily inspections. Inspect The rear-impact guard consists of vertical and and verify the welds are not cracked, fasteners horizontal structural components, a certification are intact and secure, and structural components label, welds, and hardware. The guard works as a are not buckled or bent. Wabash National system in conjunction with the trailer’s rear frame fabricates new OEM replacement parts and repair and understructure. components. Your Wabash National trailer rear-impact guard ! WARNING: meets and exceeds the requirements of United The rear-impact guard must be inspected and States Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 49 properly maintained. CFR Sections 571.223 and 571.224 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 223. These Any guard that has been damaged to the point that it standards include requirements for strength, energy no longer complies with the requirements of Federal absorption, dimensions, and testing. At the time Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and/or the Canadian of manufacture, a certification label is placed on Motor Vehicle Safety Standards must be replaced or the forward-facing surface of the guard horizontal repaired to its original condition. member to verify that it meets all requirements.

! WARNING: It is illegal to replace a missing or damaged certification label without proof that the rear-impact guard in question has been tested to verify that it meets these United States and Canadian safety requirements. Wabash National does not authorize or approve of any party replacing a missing or damaged certification label without seeking the express permission of Wabash National. 13 Systems and Features

L anding Gear • Always ensure the trailer parking brakes are applied or use chock blocks for safety when The trailer landing gear assembly includes coupling or uncoupling the trailer. mounting plates, support braces, legs, a cross- • After gear selection, ensure full engagement of the shaft, a crank handle, and hardware attaching input shaft into the crank handle. Do not depend the various components. Regular inspection is on the retaining bolt to transfer the rotation from important to ensure safe operation of the landing the handle to the input shaft. gear. • Prior to operation, inspect all hardware, including The landing gear system has two speeds: high and the bolt that attaches the handle to the input shaft. low. Low gear provides the power necessary for • Maintain firm footing and grip when cranking. Be lifting the trailer under load. High gear provides for especially cautious when standing on slippery quick leg extension and retraction without load. surfaces. • Always stow the handle when not in use. ! WARNING: • Ensure regular maintenance and lubrication Follow the guidelines below to avoid potentially according to the component manufacturer hazardous situations that may result in death or guidelines. serious injury. • Do not uncouple the tractor from the trailer until the landing gear support legs have been extended, contact the ground, and support the weight of the trailer. • Always park the trailer on a solid, level surface.

14 Systems and Features

Landing Gear Operating Instructions NOTE: Both inside and outside mounts crank the same. • Push crank handle in for high gear. • Pull crank handle out for low gear. Additional information related to specific landing gear systems can be reviewed at the appropriate web • Turn crank: sites accessible through www.wabashnational.com. Counterclockwise — retract Clockwise — extend

15 Systems and Features

Standard Wabash Wiring Schematic 16 Systems and Features

Electrical System Wiring for most Wabash National trailers is shown in the illustration on Page 16. The electrical system includes mounting 7-way receptacle, wiring, lamps, and various other To achieve the best performance and extend the accessories. Regular inspection of the system is life of the trailer lighting: necessary for the safe operation of the vehicle. • Keep all lamps and reflectors clean for optimum visibility and safety. The electrical system of your Wabash National • Never use a test probe to pierce wire insulation. trailer meets or exceeds all federal and state Punctures to the wire jacket will allow moisture requirements in effect at the time of manufacture. to collect on the wire strands, corroding critical NOTE: Wabash National’s standard front marker connections. lights are PC-rated (visible over 180 degrees) and • Regularly inspect your wiring junctions and mounted for protection from damage on the trailer’s grounds for poor connections and/or corrosion. sides. This mounting arrangement complies with Clean and grease them with a dielectric grease as required regulations and satisfies the requirement necessary. for lights on the front. (See FMVSS 49 CFR Section • Regularly inspect your wiring harness for damage 571.108.) and/or unsupported wiring. • When maintaining the electrical system, make For the electrical system to operate properly, the sure only original components are used. tractor must supply a reliable power source of 12 volts DC from the tractor pig-tail to the trailer 7-way ! CAUTION: receptacle. The 7-way receptacle is equipped with Always turn your trailer lights off while positioned at a hinged cover that locks the connection in place a loading dock. and protects it from exposure to dirt and water ! WARNING: when not in use. Never operate the trailer with any nonfunctioning light. 17 Systems and Features

A ir Systems ! CAUTION: Follow the guidelines below to avoid potentially The air systems consist of service and emergency hazardous situations. gladhands, plumbing, reservoirs, and brake and suspension valves. Regular inspection of the • Constantly monitor tractor air gauges for systems is vital to the safe operation of the vehicle. indications of unusual air consumption. • Routinely clean gladhand screens and open One of the most important preventive maintenance reservoir petcocks to drain moisture from the practices for operators is the routine draining of tractor and trailer reservoirs. all air reservoirs and inspecting for contaminants. • Never operate the trailer until air gauges indicate Care must be taken to ensure foreign matter does the system is fully charged and stabilized. not enter the trailer’s air systems through the front gladhands, either from the tractor or open, exposed gladhands. It is recommended that all tractors be equipped with air dryers.

18 Systems and Features

Brake System B rake Air System The brake system consists of an air system Trailer brakes are controlled by the tractor brake (reservoir, service valve, emergency valve, and air system. The trailer brake system has two functional lines), anti-lock brake system (ABS) (wheel speed systems: supply (emergency) and service. sensors, tone rings, warning lamp, electronic and pneumatic control modules), and foundation brakes The supply system connects with the tractor (slack adjusters, S-cams, brake chambers, and through the red gladhand. It provides a constant shoes or pads). supply of air to the trailer and releases the parking brakes and fills the trailer air reservoir. The service system connects with the tractor through the blue gladhand. It provides a signal for trailer brake application when tractor brakes are applied. Service brakes apply when the tractor brake pedal is depressed, sending an air signal to the trailer service valve. The relay valve sends reservoir air to the trailer’s brake chambers, which then actuate the trailer brakes. When the tractor brake pedal is released, the air signal vents and the brakes are released.

19 Systems and Features

B rake Air System (cont.) ! WARNING: Do not operate the trailer with any brake defects The trailer is equipped with spring-applied or with the brakes out of adjustment. emergency/parking brakes. The brake air chambers have two sections, one of which contains • Inspect and adjust trailer brakes according to the emergency/parking brake spring. When no DOT requirements and a preventive maintenance supply air is present, the emergency/parking brake program. springs mechanically apply the brakes. • Inspect the gladhand connection seals and repair Trailers are equipped with a spring brake priority as needed. emergency valve. This dedicates air to releasing • Inspect air hoses and connections and repair as the spring brakes before charging the reservoir and needed. supplying the suspension system. To ensure the • Never use antifreeze and/or additives in the air reservoir and suspension are properly charged, system. do not operate the trailer until the tractor air gauges indicate the systems are fully charged and • Ensure the tractor is equipped with an air dryer. stabilized. • Ensure the tractor and trailer gladhands are free of contamination when coupling. The trailer brakes should be inspected frequently for serviceability. Any missing, broken, or • Monitor the tractor air gauges for signs of unusual disconnected component is hazardous and could air consumption. result in an accident or breakdown. The trailer • Check and clean the gladhand screens. should never be placed in service when any of the • Routinely open all reservoir petcocks to drain listed conditions exist. Trailer brake systems will moisture from the reservoirs. perform safely and efficiently as long as they are properly maintained as part of a comprehensive maintenance program. 20 Systems and Features

Anti-Lock Brake System ! WARNING: The ABS indicator light located at the trailer’s The trailer’s anti-lock brake system (ABS) includes left rear corner should turn on and off when wheel speed sensors, tone rings, warning lamp, electrical power is initially applied to the anti- and electronic and pneumatic control modules. lock brake system. If the lamp does not turn on, The ABS continuously monitors wheel speed it may be defective and must be repaired. If the and controls braking during extreme braking lamp turns on and remains on while power is applications. When the Electronic Control Unit continuously applied, the ABS system must be (ECU) detects an extreme braking application, the inspected and repaired by a qualified service unit activates the appropriate pneumatic control facility. Failure to take action can result in valve, and brake air pressure is controlled. If the property damage, serious injury, or death. ABS malfunctions, the trailer will have non-ABS- You must operate your vehicle as safely as assisted braking. However, it is important to have possible. While the ABS can help you bring the system repaired immediately. Vehicle safety is your vehicle to a controlled, safe stop in severe your responsibility! braking situations, ABS cannot compensate for excessive speed, inattentive driving, or improper handling of your vehicle. Safety is up to you.

21 Systems and Features

Detailed technical resources for your specific ABS system can be reviewed at the appropriate web sites accessible through www.wabashnational.com.

AB S Electrical System Diagram 22 Systems and Features

Foundation Brake System The foundation brake system consists of brake chambers, slack adjusters, S-cams, and shoes or pads. During a service brake application, the brake chambers convert air pressure to mechanical force through the slack adjusters and camshafts to apply the brakes. All trailer brake chambers perform both service and parking brake functions. The service brake stops the trailer from a signal from the tractor. ! The parking brake applies when the driver applies WARNING: the parking brake. The parking brake also applies Always chock the wheels securely to prevent automatically when the air supply is unintentionally any trailer movement before releasing the lost. During routine maintenance or in emergency spring parking brakes. See the brake chamber situations, it may be necessary to move the trailer manufacturer’s service manual for details on before air pressure can be restored. In such cases, how to manually release the spring brake. the mechanical spring brake can be manually It is standard practice for most brake chamber backed off and released. suppliers to attach a caging bolt to the exterior housing for emergency purposes.

23 Systems and Features

F oundation Brake System (cont.) ! WARNING: If the spring brakes are caged or deactivated, To cage the spring: the vehicle will not have emergency or parking a) Remove the plastic end cap. brakes. The vehicle must not be driven in traffic b) Insert the special release bolt in the center-hole or not parked without blocking the wheels. It opening. Be sure the formed end of the bolt is important to understand that a caged spring engages the piston until it bottoms out. brake eliminates the emergency breakaway c) Turn the release bolt 1/4-turn clockwise and pull feature of the system and represents a potential the bolt outward to lock the formed end into the danger. piston. d) Install a flat washer and release nut on the end The trailer should not be released into service of the release bolt and tighten the nut down while the spring brake is inoperative. against the surface. e) Using a 3/4" open-end wrench, turn the nut clockwise to tighten against the chamber housing. f) While performing this procedure, check the service chamber pushrod to ensure it is retracting. g) Continue to tighten the nut clockwise until the spring is fully compressed and the chamber piston is fully retracted. NOTE: To reactivate the spring brake from a released position, perform these steps in reverse order. Spring Brake Diagram 24 Systems and Features

Foundation Brake System (cont.) ! WARNING: Service brakes and parking brakes must ! WARNING: be inspected by the driver before and after Never attempt to disassemble or repair a spring operation. NEVER operate a trailer with brake chamber. Serious personal injury could defective brakes. result from accidental sudden release of the high-energy spring. • Verify the brake chamber plastic end cap is in place to seal out dirt and contaminants. The slack adjuster functions as a lever in the brake • Visually inspect all components for broken or system. It converts the linear force of the brake missing parts, damage, and corrosion. chamber into torque, which forces the brake shoes against the drums. Trailers are built with automatic • Ensure the service brake chamber clamping ring is secure and damage-free. slack adjusters. Automatic adjusters ensure constant brake shoe force by maintaining brake • If a defect is suspected, place the vehicle out of shoe to drum clearance. service until a qualified mechanic can perform repairs. ! WARNING: Before entering traffic, check the operation of the trailer brakes to ensure they are in proper working order. Operate the foot pedal, dash control valves, and hand valve to verify the brakes apply and release each time. Listen and be alert for air leaks during each type of brake application. Slack Decal 25 Systems and Features

A ir-Ride Suspension In compliance with DOT requirements, the suspension system should be inspected before and The air-ride suspension system consists of frame after operation: brackets, suspension links, axle connections, air • Check each air spring to verify sufficient inflation. springs, shock absorbers, and a height control Fill each spring to equal firmness and verify there valve. is no physical damage present. The air-ride suspension is designed to provide • Check all shock absorbers for leaking or damage. a level, cushioned ride throughout all legal load • Check the height control valve to ensure the ranges. The height control valve maintains the linkage is properly connected. suspension ride height by regulating air to the air springs. Trailers are equipped with a spring brake Additional information related to maintenance and priority emergency valve. This dedicates air to operation of a specific suspension system can be releasing the spring brakes first, before charging reviewed at the appropriate web sites accessible the reservoir and supplying air to the suspension through www.wabashnational.com. system. To ensure the reservoir and suspension are properly charged, do not operate the trailer until the tractor air gauges indicate the system is fully charged and stabilized.

26 Systems and Features

Leaf Spring Suspension that spring U-bolts be checked for proper tightness regularly. Leaf spring suspension inspection and The leaf spring suspension consists of spring maintenance requirements are available at the hangers, spring seats, equalizer bushings, leaf component manufacturer web sites accessible spring assemblies, torque arms, and U-bolts. through www.wabashnational.com. Care and maintenance are required to ensure For example, the Hutchens suspension’s torque satisfactory service life. The springs must be tightly requirements are reflected in the diagram clamped to the spring seat and axle to prevent any below. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s movement between U-bolts. Excessive movement requirements for your specific make and model of can result in misalignment of axles. It is important suspension.

27 Systems and Features

Hubs ! WARNING: Cracked wheels, loose nuts, or missing studs are extremely hazardous and may cause accidents or breakdowns. Check hub gaskets and seals for lubrication leaks before each trip. Leaking seals can cause damaged wheel bearings and possible failure of the wheel-end assembly. Hubs should be mounted and balanced properly and in accordance with the hub manufacturer’s instructions prior to operation of the trailer. Instructions are available at the component manufacturer web sites accessible through www.wabashnational.com.

28 Maintenance and Lubrication

Lu i brICat on ! WARNING: Follow the guidelines below to avoid potentially Wheel Ends hazardous situations that may result in death or serious injury. Two types of lubrication are used in wheel ends: oil or semi-fluid grease. If oil is used, check the oil • Never mix oil and semi-fluid grease in the same level in all hubs before every trip. Add oil when low, wheel end. but only to the level indicated by the mark on the • Always use the same type of oil or semi-fluid hubcap face. Too much oil may cause leaks. grease in the same wheel end. Semi-fluid grease will be indicated by a label on • Consult your local lubricant supplier for product recommendations. the wheel end or trailer. There will be no oil level viewing window in the hubcap. Even though there Doors is no way to visually check the lubrication level, you Lubricate the door counterbalance, bearings, must still inspect the wheel ends before every trip to rollers, hinges, and locking handle regularly with ensure that there are no lubrication leaks. Grease a dry spray lubricant according to manufacturer’s around the inner hub seal or grease contamination recommendations. When lubricating, wipe dirt on the inside of a wheel and tire indicates a residue and buildup from the roller tracks. Do not possible leak and requires immediate service. use any petroleum-based lubricant on the rubber door seals. Additional operation and maintenance Wabash National recommends compliance with information for your specific door system can be TMC Recommended Practice No. 631A with reviewed at the appropriate web sites accessible respect to wheel-end-lubrication inspection, through www.wabashnational.com. maintenance, and service. This Recommended ! Practice states that a hub should be filled with CAUTION: semi-fluid grease to the 3 o’clock-and-9 o’clock The frequency of door maintenance will vary level (cavity filled 50% full). with climate conditions and use. 29 Maintenance and Lubrication

Tire Care ! WARNING: Follow the guidelines below to avoid potentially Limiting Factors and Load Limits hazardous situations that may result in death or serious injury. Always maintain proper tire pressure and stay within tire load limits. Tire pressure should • Inspect the tires for nails and other objects be measured when tires are cold. The total embedded in the rubber. load capacity per tire must not exceed the tire • Inspect the treads for stones and other objects manufacturer’s specified load rating. Each tire lodged between duals. has its size, load rating, and maximum pressure • Inspect the tires for abrasions, cuts, dry rot, or molded in the sidewall face. The Vehicle other damage. Identification Number (VIN) plate on the front wall • Inspect the condition of the treads to ensure of your trailer also provides the Gross Axle Weight proper, even wear and DOT tread-depth Rating (GAWR), tire size, load rating, and inflation compliance. pressure. • Check that the dual tires on any axle end are of the same diameter. • Inspect the tire valve stems for damage and missing valve caps. • Never operate equipment with tires that have low or no pressure. • When replacing tires and rims, make sure they are replaced with the same size, type, and load rating.

30 Operation

Hookup/Coupling and Uncoupling trailer to ensure proper engagement of the kingpin to the fifth wheel. Never operate a tractor/trailer combination that is not properly coupled. Inspect the trailer coupler and kingpin for damage, cracking, excessive corrosion, and wear. Position the tractor directly in front of the trailer, never back under the trailer at an angle. This can result in damaged landing gear.

Back up the trailer carefully, slowing to a near stop until the fifth wheel locks. Pull forward in low gear to test the coupling. This initial check also confirms the trailer parking brakes are applied. ! WARNING: Never operate a trailer without first visually inspecting and verifying a proper coupling.

Adjust the trailer height so that the trailer contacts A visual inspection is required by law. Some improper couplings can pass a pull test. Sound the fifth wheel approximately 6" behind the pivot. alone is not reliable. A visual inspection is IMPORTANT! When coupling, you must lift the mandatory. 31 Operation

Hookup/Coupling and Uncoupling (cont.) ! CAUTION Exercise caution when repositioning the • Visually inspect the coupling using a flashlight. tandem location. – Ensure there is no space between the upper coupler and fifth wheel. The proper method of sliding a tandem – Ensure the fifth wheel jaws have closed 1. The driver should position the tractor and trailer around kingpin shank. in a straight line on level ground and note the – Ensure the locking lever is in the “locked” position of the vehicle in reference to how far the position. trailer should travel before reaching the desired tandem position. • Inspect and connect the air lines and electrical cord, ensuring proper clearance. 2. The driver must set the parking brakes and proceed to the bogie lock pin release handle. • Fully retract the landing gear and stow the crank handle. Use low gear until the legs are no longer 3. After assuming a safe, firm stance, the driver should manually disengage the bogie lock pins. in contact with the ground. 4. After returning to the tractor, the driver should Sliding the Tandem ease forward or backward in the lowest gear range available (walking speed) to the desired Most Wabash National trailers have sliding suspension location. If the bogie lock pins are tandems to allow for bridge law compliance, in a bind and the tandem fails to slide, it may be maneuverability, or to comply with loading dock necessary to apply minimal force in a forward safety requirements. Sliding tandems are held in and rearward direction to allow the locking pins place by a locking pin mechanism operated by a to completely disengage. The driver must be pull handle or air-operated control. prepared to stop immediately upon low-speed contact with the front or rear stop bar.

32 Operation

Sliding the Tandem (cont.) Refrigerated-Trailer Cooling Unit 5. Once the tandems have been repositioned and If your Wabash National trailer is a refrigerated van, the tractor’s parking brakes are set, the driver it is essential that you inspect and maintain your must visually inspect and verify all locking pins refrigeration unit according to the manufacturer’s are fully engaged in the slide rails and the handle recommendations. Detailed technical resources is in the locked position. The trailer can then be for your specific cooling unit can be reviewed at operated. the appropriate web sites found through 6. Only when there is minimal traction from rain, www.wabashnational.com. snow, or gravel it may be necessary to apply the trailer parking brakes while traveling at a Safety Appliances minimal speed. This practice aids in breaking the friction between the tandem and slide rails and is Use all steps and handholds with extreme caution. acceptable as long as the driver slows to a creep Such components are subject to wear, damage, just before contacting either the forward or rear and environmental conditions. Do not use these stop bar. components unless they are firmly attached and properly maintained. Use extreme caution when An example of a trailer sliding tandem warning label steps are wet. Remove ice prior to use. Steps can be found on Page 34. and handholds are not provided for performing maintenance on the cooling unit. • Never climb steps that are not firmly attached or properly maintained. • Use extreme care when stepping on/off trailer steps. Use common sense, and step on only supported, nonslip surfaces. 33 Operation

34 Inspection

O perator’s Pre-Trip Inspection • When applicable, inspect the sliding tandem lock pins to ensure full engagement. Check that The following pre-trip inspection checklist provides the hold-down brackets are in place and not a guide to owners and operators of Wabash damaged. National trailers. Operators are responsible for • Ensure the trailer brakes, including the ABS making sure that only safe vehicles are operated system, are properly adjusted and the system is on public roads. Drivers must inspect the complete functioning properly. trailer before the start of every trip. The pre-trip • Inspect the trailer rims for any defects and loose inspection should include, but not be limited to, the or missing lug nuts. following items: • Ensure proper wheel-end lubrication. Check hub • Make sure the vehicle has current registration, gaskets and seals for lubrication leaks. If a leak is DOT inspection, license plate, and bill of lading. evident, maintenance is required. • Verify the fifth wheel is engaged and locked. • Inspect the trailer tires for damage, tread depth, • Inspect the electrical connector and verify it is fully and proper inflation. seated. Make sure the cord is unobstructed and • Ensure that the splash guards/mud flaps are intact not damaged. and securely attached. • Inspect the air hoses/gladhands for chafing, • Make sure all doors are secured. defective seals, and/or leaking. • Inspect the rear-impact guard to ensure welds are • Make sure the landing gear legs are fully raised not cracked, fasteners are intact and secure, and and the handle is stowed securely. structural components are not buckled or bent. • Turn on all lights and 4-way flashers. Inspect and clean all lights and reflective tape.

35 Inspection

O perator’s Pre-Trip Inspection (cont.) • When driving away, apply the trailer brakes and gently rock the trailer backward and forward. Make sure the sliding undercarriage is properly locked. Exit the truck cab and again visually check to verify proper pin engagement. • Ensure overall trailer safety. ! WARNING: Always follow the vehicle and component manufacturer’s instructions when operating sliding undercarriages. ! WARNING: Any motor vehicle should not be operated in such a condition as to likely cause an accident or breakdown of the vehicle. The above list is not all-inclusive. Operators are responsible for ensuring the truck and trailer comply with all applicable DOT regulations.

36 Conclusion

F or More Information With regular care and maintenance, your Wabash National trailer will provide years of safe and dependable use. If you have a question regarding your trailer, please contact your sales representative or Wabash National Customer Service at (765) 771-5300. For maintenance and operation information for a specific system or component, check the appropriate web sites accessible through www.wabashnational.com. Your trailer was engineered, manufactured, and inspected to ensure compliance with all applicable Department of Transportation (DOT) safety requirements. If you detect a defect that could cause an accident or injury, or if you wish to report an accident or injury, please contact Wabash National Warranty at (765) 771-5404. Thank you for selecting a Wabash National trailer. Always inspect, maintain, and operate your Wabash National trailer with safety as the number-one priority.

37 QMS-F-0604 Rev.2